MYA seeks ban on drug stores selling tobacco

MIDDLEBORO — Pharmacies would be prohibited from selling cigarettes and other tobacco products if the selectmen approve a health regulation proposed by the Middleboro Youth Advocates.

MYA youth representatives Elizabeth Bell and Casey Schnetzer made a presentation Monday night to the selectmen, who also act as the town's Board of Health. The MYA is a consortium of youth and adults that works on projects designed to reduce drug and alcohol use among young people.

During a PowerPoint presentation, the young women said drug stores are especially problematic as a source of cigarettes because they are health care institutions and young people instinctively believe that the products they sell are not harmful.

More than 70 communities in the state, including Boston, have adopted similar regulations according to Robert Collett, director of the Regional Tobacco Control Program.

The California Department of Public Health has determined that tobacco sales account for less than 1 percent of pharmacy revenue, the MHS students told the selectmen.

The selectmen have scheduled a public hearing for March 12 on the proposed regulation and other proposed amendments to the town's tobacco control bylaws.

There are an estimated 2,689 smokers in Middleboro, according to MYA surveys. According to Monday night's presentation the smoking rate in Middleboro is higher than the state average, which in turn is among the highest in the country.

"We're not trying to tell anyone 'You're bad people if you smoke,'" said Ms. Bell, the high school representative. "We know it's very hard to stop."

The young women said Middleboro's tobacco regulations have not been updated in 13 years. MYA is proposing a ban on cigarette vending machines, and more serious consequences for stores that sell cigarettes to minors.

The MYA is supported by federal funding and is currently preparing a new application for a Drug Free Communities grant.

MYA Director Amanda Decker said the group welcomes letters of support. Letters can be sent to MYA at 17 Jericho Road in Middleboro or emailed to amanda@middleboroyouthadvocates.com. The MYA web site is at middleboroyouthadvocates.com.